Greg McElroy ready for 'once-in-a-lifetime-opportunity'

New York Jets quarterback Greg McElroy said Wednesday that he's"pleased and proud" to get the opportunity to start on Sunday against the San Diego Chargers.

Mcelroy, third-string for most of the season and inactive in all but the one game in which he helped the Jets earn a come-from-behind 7-6 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, was named the starter on Tuesday. On Monday night Mark Sanchez had five turnovers (four interceptions and a fumble) in a loss to the Tennessee Titans that eliminated the 6-8 Jets from playoff contention.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This is a great moment and a great milestone in my career," said McElroy, who played collegiately at Alabama. "Obviously this is something I’ve looked forward to and I’ve dreamed about my entire life."

Many view this as a tryout for next season for McElroy, since the Jets will likely be moving on with a quarterback other than Sanchez.

"I don’t look at it like anything," McElroy said. "You never know what the situation is going to be. Obviously, going into Sunday, I’m going to be the starter. I’m very thankful and fortunate for this opportunity, but I’m not concerned about next week against Buffalo. I’m not concerned about next year. I’m not concerned about those things. Just enjoy right now (and) live in the moment."